Overview
The Ministry of Mines has expanded the National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM) by recognizing two additional institutes as Centres of Excellence (CoE). These are the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, and the Centre for Materials for Electronics Technology (C-MET), Hyderabad. This decision, following the approval of the Project Approval and Advisory Committee (PAAC) on October 24, 2025, aims to bolster research and development in the critical mineral value chain.
Key Developments
Recognition of New Centres of Excellence
- New Additions: IISc Bangalore and C-MET Hyderabad join the existing network of 7 recognized institutes.
- Approval Authority: The PAAC, co-chaired by Shri Piyush Goyal, Secretary, Ministry of Mines, and Prof. Abhay Karandikar, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, granted the approval.
Objectives of the Centres of Excellence
- R&D Promotion: The CoEs will focus on promoting research and development in the critical mineral value chain.
- Technology Advancement: Aim to develop, demonstrate, and deploy technologies, reaching Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) of 7/8, including pilot plant and pre-commercial demonstration.
- Innovative Research: Undertake innovative and transformational research to strengthen the nation’s science and technology capability in critical minerals.
Operational Model
- Hub & Spoke Model: Each CoE will operate as a consortium, using a Hub & Spoke model to leverage R&D and pool core competencies.
- Partnerships: Each CoE (Hub Institute) is mandated to include at least two industry partners and two R&D/academic partners in the consortium.
- Network Size: The 9 recognized CoEs have collectively brought in around 90 industry and academic/R&D spokes.
UPSC Relevance
This initiative is highly relevant for the UPSC Civil Services Exam, particularly under GS Paper III (Science and Technology, Infrastructure) and GS Paper II (Government Policies and Interventions). It highlights the government's focus on securing critical resources for strategic sectors and promoting indigenous technology development.
Potential Exam Questions
- Discuss the significance of the National Critical Mineral Mission in securing India's resource needs for strategic sectors.
- Analyze the role of Centres of Excellence in promoting indigenous R&D in critical minerals and reducing import dependence.
- Evaluate the Hub & Spoke model adopted by the CoEs and its effectiveness in fostering collaboration between industry and academia.
Important Facts
- Mission: National Critical Mineral Mission (NCMM)
- New CoEs: IISc Bangalore and C-MET Hyderabad
- Approval Date: October 24, 2025
- Operational Model: Hub & Spoke
- Industry/Academia Spokes: Approximately 90